Situated on Norway's southern coast is its capital, Oslo, known for its fjords, lush green landscapes, contemporary art, stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and friendly locals.
Nicknamed the Tiger City, Oslo is an exciting and awe-inspiring place for everyone from a nature lover to an art enthusiast or simply someone looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of reality.
No other hotel gives you the best of everything the city offers than Amerikalinjen – a historic landmark turned boutique hotel in the heart of Oslo.
(Credit: Amerikalinjen)
Located in the middle of Jernbanetorget Square, Amerikalinjen is a gateway to the flourishing city's multitude of dining, shopping, activity, and entertainment options. These include must-see attractions such as The Royal Castle, the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, Oslo Spektrum, and the Munch Museum.
What sets it apart from other hotels is its history, which dates back to 1919, when it was the neo-baroque headquarters of the Norwegian America Line. It was a former freight company and ship line that transported locals to New York in pursuit of the American Dream. Thousands of Norwegians sailed to the United States for greener pastures, which resulted in a surge in immigration. Due to the success of its operations, the company soon sought a prime location for its headquarters, which led to the construction of an imposing multi-storied building called Den Norske Amerikalinje (directly translated as Norwegian America Line).
Despite enjoying ample success for several decades, the company went under in 1995 after other modes of transportation took over the market.
But after extensive renovations and refurbishment overseen by the Scandinavian Design Group, the Amerikalinjen is now a luxurious boutique hotel that pays homage to its Norwegian-American maritime heritage while also riding the waves of contemporary times, offering the best of both worlds in Oslo.
Crossing the street from the city's Central Station, you'll find the impressive building that has been an architectural landmark for a hundred years. This New York City-themed hotel in Oslo opened in 2019, welcoming the modern explorer to a haven steeped in history. It is a vision of Neoclassical architecture, keeping the original details intact, including the sculptures above the entrance, parquet floors, the grand staircase, vaulted ceilings, and the wooden elevator casing. Just stepping inside the building will make you feel like you're truly part of something magical.
Throughout the hotel, you'll see maritime-themed memorabilia interspersed with Pop Art pieces and Scandinavian works, masterfully combining glimpses of its heritage and the modern world.
Amerikalinjen boasts 122 elegant and meticulously designed rooms, offering a respite from the city's hubbub. The layout reflects the contemporary Scandinavian design blended with original building features for a perfect mix of old and new. Each room features comfortable bedding, large windows, an Art Deco-style bathroom with essentials courtesy of local brand Sprekenhus, a view of the cityscape or the inner courtyard, and a cozy atmosphere.
Spending the day inside Amerikalinjen is easy, as it is equipped with amenities that cater to everyone's needs. You'll never go hungry with its dining options and be thoroughly entertained with its hotel bar and swanky club.
Atlas Brasserie & Café offers a feast influenced by worldwide cuisines with a Scandinavian twist. The Little Bakery lives up to the New York City theme with its bagels, spreads, and toppings to satisfy your cravings. Haven, Amerikalinjen's café, is situated in a beautiful covered courtyard populated by plants basking under natural light. It's perfect for grabbing a tea or coffee and reading a book, holding an exclusive event, or simply taking in the beautiful surroundings and enjoying a relaxing time.
For a nightcap, Pier 42 is the perfect stop with eclectic selections of cocktails updated from the original ships of the cruise line. It was voted the best cocktail bar in Norway for two consecutive years (2021 and 2022) and owes its name to Pier 42 Manhattan - the first thing the Norwegians encountered when their ship arrived in New York in search of a new life. To reflect this crucial historical fact, Pier 42 blended its heritage with modern cocktail culture through a one-of-a-kind drinks menu that reflects what Amerikalinjen stands for. It explores the connections between the United States and Norway, so each drink has a remarkable backstory based on culture, essential events, art, and nature.
Meanwhile, Gustav is an intimate club located in the hotel's basement. Named after Gustav Henriksen, the founder of Amerikalinjen, the club took inspiration from the jazz scene in New York. Henriksen encountered opposition to the opening of the Norwegian America Line years prior, but he believed that people wanted the freedom to explore. Despite huge resistance, the first ship left the dock in 1913. As a sign of respect and to reflect Gustav Henriksen's playful side, the club was born and became an important establishment in Amerikalinjen. It prides itself in its Friday night jazz performances, as well as its state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, making it the perfect setting for different kinds of events.
The hotel also has a library designed to resemble the common areas on a ship, featuring original details like carved timber ceilings. Here, guests can learn more about Amerikalinjen's history or spend quiet time alone.
A 24-hour gym with modern equipment and a Finnish sauna are also available, as are excellent running and cycling routes from the hotel.
As it is centrally located, Amerikalinjen is right across the Oslo Central Station and tram stops. Public transportation options, such as a cab, a bus, a train, and even a boat or a ferry for traveling to the Oslo archipelago, are easily accessible right outside its entrance. The hotel is also within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and museums.
If you're looking for the best that the city has to offer, Amerikalinjen is the spot for a one-of-a-kind Oslo experience. You can never go wrong with a hotel steeped in history that caters to the modern traveler's needs, offering the best of both worlds in the heart of the city.
Oslo is a destination not to be missed with its flourishing city center, incredible Nordic architecture, beautiful old-world buildings, charming neighborhoods, world-class cuisines, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals. People from Oslo love and enjoy their city all year round, and you can feel the same energy as you marvel at the place and immerse yourself in the culture.
Consider Oslo for your next travel destination, and make sure to reserve a spot at Amerikalinjen for a luxurious stay and an authentic Oslo experience.